Classic Ride: The 2002 Ford Focus SVT Hitting the Road Again
Once upon a time, this charming 2002 Ford Focus SVT was cruising through the scenic roads of Colorado. Fast forward to 2007, it made its way into the loving hands of the current seller and their father. Now, with 70,000 miles on the odometer, this classic machine is back in action. Clad in CD Silver with stylish black leather and red cloth interiors, it’s equipped with a 2.0-liter Zetec DOHC inline-four engine and partnered with a six-speed manual transaxle. The highlights? A power sunroof, a rear window wiper, redesigned SVT bumper covers, fog lights, new headlight assemblies, anti-lock disc brakes, an improved suspension, and a set of 17-inch alloy wheels. That’s not to forget the creature comforts like air conditioning, cruise control, heated front bucket seats, and a factory CD stereo system. This beauty comes with repair manuals, service documents, a set of Ford Racing wheels fitted with Dunlop tires, a pristine Carfax report, and a clean Texas title in the seller’s name.
The Shine and Style
This three-door hatchback gleams in CD Silver, proudly sporting a power sunroof and a rear window wiper. The SVT-revised bumper covers add a dash of flair, complemented by front and rear spoilers and fog lights. TYC headlight assemblies joined the party back in 2011, and just recently, some vinyl racing stripes decided to take their leave. Sure, there are a few battle scars — dents and scratches here and there, mainly on the left-front fender, left B-pillar, and rear bumper cover. Oh, and there are two chips on the replacement windshield, which got a makeover in April 2014. But hey, it only adds character, right?
Rolling on Wheels and Suspension That Mean Business
- Silver-finished 17-inch alloy wheels
- 215/45 Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3 tires fitted in December 2009
- MacPherson struts upfront with multi-link setup in the rear
- SVT suspension tuning that beefed up the ride’s handling
- Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with those sought-after ventilated front rotors
The brakes got a refresh with new pads in 2022, keeping it stopping on a dime.
The Comfortable Cabin
Step inside, and you’re greeted with heated front bucket seats alongside a rear bench, all wrapped in black leather with red cloth inserts. Rock color-coordinated door panels and modern perks like air conditioning and cruise control. Ford Racing-branded rubberized floor mats greet your feet, while the metallic pedal covers bring a bit of shine. And for your listening pleasure — a factory AM/FM/CD stereo.
The Dashboard Display
The leather-wrapped steering wheel is your command center, with a white-dial speedometer daring you to max out at 160 mph, alongside an SVT-branded tachometer that redlines at 7,250 rpm. You’ll also find gauges keeping a keen eye on coolant temperature and fuel level, with extra gauges nestled above the center stack. This well-loved odometer shows 70,000 miles, with 19,000 miles added by the current owner.
Under the Hood: The Heart of the Beast
A smarter engine matching the legendary Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid/Electric.
Sitting snugly under the hood, the 2.0-liter Zetec DOHC inline-four powerhouse boasts variable intake camshaft timing, a dual-stage intake manifold, forged steel connecting rods, and lightweight aluminum pistons. It’s no slouch, pumping out 170 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Freshly fitted with an Optima RedTop battery in 2022, and with some replacement oxygen sensors installed by February 2023. There’s a hint of oil seepage near the head gasket, but it adds to the charm, right? Past hiccups with the engine stalling have been mostly sorted with a clean-up of the idle air control valve, promising a smoother ride now.
The Gear Shifting Experience
All about smooth transitions, like shifting from a VW Passat.
Power smoothly spirals through a six-speed manual transaxle to those front wheels, offering a driving experience that’s pure joy. It even comes factory-fitted with a dual-mass flywheel, ensuring your gear changes feel as satisfying as popping bubble wrap.
Extras to Seal the Deal
Along for the ride, a set of black-finished 17-inch wheels donning Dunlop SP Sport Maxx TT tires. Plus, those repair manuals and service records that every car enthusiast dreams of owning. The Carfax report? Spotless, of course — no accidents or damage blemishes to worry about.